When I travel, I like to plan carefully and pack for any and every contingency. I make a packing list and a to do list of important activities leading up to the trip as well. I then file my lists by category – that way I can save myself time when planning a similar trip in the future.

For your own edification, here are my lists for the trip I took to one of Clay’s concerts last year.

Pre-Trip

Lose weight/get in shape (Clay might see me) Dye gray pigment challenged hair (Clay might see me) Botox (otherwise Clay might think I’m frowning if he sees me) Manicure/pedicure (Clay might see me) Check daily for better front row seats (so Clay can see me)

Packing List

TICKETS!!!!!!!!!!!! Nice concert outfit (Clay might see me) Alternate nice concert outfit (Clay might like this one better) Yet another alternative concert outfit (Wait – Clay might actually like this one) French lingerie (just in case) TICKETS!!!!!!!!!!!! Sexy nightgown (just in case) Toiletries (make up, hair products, teeth whitening strips, contraceptives) Extra concert tickets to try to sell or give away in desperation at the last moment Laptop (so I can check for better front row seats so Clay can see me) Camera Extra batteries Extra camera memory cards TICKETS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here is another set of lists I made for a recent trip to visit my family

Pre-Trip

Pack eventually

Packing List

Toiletries – optional Change of underwear – as needed camera nah, why bother? Clothes – whatever’s reasonably clean Laptop (so I can check for better front row seats for the next concert)

Yes, it's all in the details.